Ruth Margaret Marshall Balli's Obituary
Our sunshine girl, Ruth Balli lived by her two mottos: enjoy each day and be happy!
Her family and friends are better for knowing and loving her. Ruth passed away peacefully at her home on August 15, 2023, just 10 days shy of her 100th birthday. We will miss her dearly.
Ruth Margaret Marshall Balli was born August 25, 1923 in the quiet town of Lyman, Wyoming. Ruth was the tenth child born to Elizabeth Minnie Wall and William Dotson Marshall. She had six older brothers and three older sisters. Eighteen months after Ruth’s birth she welcomed a younger sister.
When Ruth was two years old, her dad was made deputy sheriff and her family moved to Evanston, Wyoming. Ruth graduated from Evanston High School in 1941. After graduation, she worked for Mountain Bell Telephone Company as the night operator. She later worked for Phillips Petroleum in the credit department.
Enduring faith, as well as her testimony of the Savior and the restored gospel, were always hallmarks of Ruth’s long life. She served a successful mission for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints from 1947 to 1949 in the Mexican mission, where she had many wonderful experiences. Ruth was devoted to temple worship, spending Tuesday mornings attending the temple for over 40 years. She also served the Lord in many ward callings.
In 1961, Ruth married Richard Balli in the Salt Lake Temple. They enjoyed many happy years together raising two children, traveling, attending sporting and cultural events and spending time with family and friends. Richard passed away in 2004. Her family was her greatest joy.
Ruth also had a great zest for life. Her many interests and passions spilled over into golf, tennis, playing games, reading, music and a good mystery. She loved the mountains especially Yellowstone Park and last went camping at age 95. It was the simple things in life that made Ruth happy and contented.
Not one to call attention to herself or seek the limelight, Ruth was a humble woman in which there was no guile. She lived a rich, full and devoted life.
Ruth leaves behind a daughter Patti Balli, son Stephen Balli, wife Amy, and three grandchildren: Hailey (Matt) Foster, Samantha, and Cameron: great grandson Lincoln: as well as many nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her husband Richard, her parents and her siblings.
Funeral services will be held on August 25 at 11 a.m. at the Canyon Rim 4th ward located at 3051 South 2900 East in Salt Lake City. A viewing will be held from 9:30 – 10:30 prior to the funeral. A visitation will be held the night before at the church from 6 – 8pm.
Ruth you will always be our Sunshine. We love you!
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